Ian Black says he’s delighted to exit Hearts on a high after helping the club to Scottish Cup glory in the 5-1 win over Hibernian.
The midfielder admitted he felt very emotional after claiming the trophy on his personal swansong for his boyhood heroes.
Black was given a standing ovation after being substituted in the closing stages of the match and says winning silverware at the national stadium fulfilled a long-held dream.
He said: "You dream of that as a kid, being a Hearts fan myself, and I couldn't have asked for any more.
"We deserved every bit of it. We worked hard and went about our business in the right way.
"It's an emotional time, obviously I'm parting with the club but it's a great way to go out."
Speaking about the reaction he received from the fans, he added: "That was something special, you can't take that away from anybody," he said.
"I thank every one of them. I have enjoyed every minute here and we did that for them as well."
The out-of-contract midfielder praised Paulo Sergio for helping the squad through some tough times this term.
And he expressed sympathy for injured team-mate Jamie Hamill, who missed the final through injury.
"The gaffer has been outstanding, he has kept us cool and in the right frame of mind," Black said.
"We did it for him and I'd like to say Jamie Hamill as well. I'm gutted for the wee man but he has played a big part in it and I just wish he was playing."
While enjoying the post-match celebrations, Black says he hopes to earn a move to England in the next few weeks.
"Fingers crossed my phone starts ringing in the next couple of days and I look forward to the next challenge," the 27-year-old said.
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